Matthew Lillard has officially joined the cast of Man of Tomorrow, the upcoming DCU Superman sequel directed by James Gunn. While Matthew Lillard’s role remains a mystery, the casting announcement has already sparked major speculation among DC fans. Considering Lillard’s unique mix of comedy, horror, and eccentric performances, there are several DC characters who could perfectly fit his style.
Interestingly, Gunn and Lillard previously worked together on the live-action Scooby-Doo movies, making this reunion even more exciting for longtime fans.
What Could Matthew Lillard’s Role Be in Man of Tomorrow?
Here are five likely DCU characters Matthew Lillard could potentially play in Man of Tomorrow.
1. Toyman
Toyman remains one of Superman’s most recognizable villains who has surprisingly never appeared in a live-action Superman movie.
Across DC Comics history, the character has evolved through multiple versions. Some portray Toyman as a whimsical criminal using deadly gadget-filled toys, while darker interpretations lean into terrorism and psychological horror.
Lillard’s ability to balance comedic energy with unsettling performances makes him an especially strong fit for the role. His horror background could help deliver a more dangerous and unpredictable version of Toyman for the DCU.
2. Prankster
Prankster is another classic Superman villain who could match Lillard’s strengths perfectly.
Originally introduced as a conman obsessed with humiliating Superman through elaborate stunts, later comic versions reinvented the character as a failed children’s television host turned criminal mastermind.
Given Lillard’s long history in comedy and entertainment-focused roles, Prankster could allow the actor to bring both humor and chaos into the DCU while still functioning as a legitimate threat.
3. Ambush Bug
Ambush Bug may sound like an unusual choice, but it actually feels very possible within James Gunn’s DCU.
The character first debuted as a Superman villain before gradually evolving into one of DC’s strangest antiheroes. Ambush Bug is known for breaking the fourth wall, absurd comedy, and constantly irritating Superman and everyone around him.
Since James Gunn has repeatedly shown his love for obscure comic book characters, casting Lillard as Ambush Bug would fit perfectly with Gunn’s creative style.
4. Plastic Man
Plastic Man is perhaps one of the most interesting possibilities.
Also known as Patrick “Eel” O’Brien, the character gains stretching powers after surviving a chemical accident and eventually becomes one of DC’s most comedic heroes.
What makes this theory even more compelling is that James Gunn reportedly pitched a Plastic Man movie starring Lillard more than 20 years ago. Lillard has also publicly expressed interest in playing the character in the past.
Plastic Man could appear in Man of Tomorrow as a possible new recruit for the Justice Gang.
5. Alec Holland / Swamp Thing
Swamp Thing could ultimately become the most unexpected — and potentially perfect — role for Lillard.
Before becoming Swamp Thing, Alec Holland is a scientist who undergoes a tragic transformation after an accident in the Louisiana swamps.
James Gunn has already confirmed that a Swamp Thing movie is in development for the DCU, making this theory increasingly believable. Lillard’s strong horror background could help bring emotional depth and tragedy to the role.
Man of Tomorrow could feature a cameo appearance from Holland that sets up his future transformation into Swamp Thing.
Man of Tomorrow Release Date and Cast
Man of Tomorrow stars:
- David Corenswet as Superman
- Nicholas Hoult as Lex Luthor
- Lars Eidinger as Brainiac
The film is currently scheduled to release on July 9, 2027.
Although Matthew Lillard’s official role in the DCU remains under wraps, these five characters all feel like realistic possibilities for Man of Tomorrow.
Whether he ends up playing a bizarre antihero, a classic Superman villain, or a future Justice Gang member, Lillard’s casting already adds another layer of excitement to James Gunn’s expanding DC Universe.
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Ambily Sajan